Bishop Matthew Clark to celebrate at "Red Mass" at Cathedral on Sept. 26, 2007

Issue Date: Aug. 27, 2007

Bishop of Rochester Matthew H. Clark will celebrate the traditional "Red Mass" at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 12:00 noon Sept. 26 to invoke the help of the Holy Spirit on judges, prosecutors, civil attorneys, canon lawyers and local government officials. All are welcome to attend the Mass, so named because of the traditional red vestments worn.

The first documented Red Mass was held in Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, in 1225. Cardinal Patrick Hayes brought the tradition to America in 1928.

"I am most grateful to the St. Thomas More Lawyers Guild for keeping the tradition alive locally for the past few years," Bishop Clark said. "I am delighted that it is moving to our newly renovated Cathedral."

Sacred Heart Cathedral is located at 296 Flower City Park, between Lake and Dewey avenues.

Media coverage is invited. Please contact Doug Mandelaro, Office of Communications, 585-328-3210.